Some say New York City is the greatest city in the world. While you’re attending our workshop, don’t forget to take some time to explore. Here’s our top ten list of things to see and do:

1. Visit the 9/11 Memorial designed by Michael Arad
The 9/11 Memorial will finally be open to the public on September 12, after a special ceremony on the 10th anniversary for family of victims. Take a moment to think about those who lost their lives while looking at the tallest building in lower Manhattan, the Freedom Tower, and two waterfalls and reflecting pools. Passes must be reserved ahead of time. For information, visit http://www.911memorial.org/visit.

While you’re in the area, visit Wall Street. Specifically check out the Federal Reserve Bank and the New York Stock Exchange.

2. Brooklyn Bridge and Promenade
The Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic landmark found in many romantic movies such as It Happened in Brooklyn and action movies such as Spiderman and Fantastic Four. As the largest and longest suspension bridge for twenty years since its construction in 1883, it involved the most updated technology of its time. Visit the Brooklyn Promenade to see the beautiful Manhattan skyline, and grab a bite at Grimaldi’s Pizza!

While you’re walking towards Manhattan, take a look at the South Street Seaport and Battery Park! It’s especially beautiful at night.

3. Times Square
If you have never travelled to Times Square, it is about time. The beautiful lights and billboards that populate this area are evidence that this part of the city never sleeps. This area is also known as the theater district, so grab a bite and watch a Broadway show. Some favorites are Wicked and Rent.

Also, check out the Intrepid on the river west of Times Square. On the other side is the beautiful Bryant Park and the New York Public Library.

4. Staten Island Ferry- Free!
A free ferry travels from the east side of Battery Park to Staten Island. This half an hour ride brings you to sights of the Statue of Liberty, the Manhattan Skyline, and the Brooklyn Bridge. Perfect for taking pictures!

If you like, take a trip to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Unfortunately, the interior access of Statue of Liberty will be closed on October 29, but both sites are still open to the public. Visit http://www.nps.gov/stli/index.htm for more information.

5. Metropolitan Museum of Art
The “Met” has one of the largest collections of art. Taking up more than four blocks of the city, the museum has over 2 million works of art ranging from classic European Art to Egyptian Art to musical instruments. The museum also has special exhibits, so be sure to take a look!

6. Chinatown
Chinatown is famous for it’s delicious, cheap food and inexpensive bags, jewelry, and other trinkets. Just walk along Canal and Mott St, and you’ll find traditional Chinese food. Right next door is Little Italy and Nolita. This area is full of delicious goodies.

Another great area to explore is SoHo (South of Houston). There are plenty of boutiques here for window-shopping.

7. Empire State Building
This 102-story skyscraper built in 1931 is the tallest building in the city. The first elevators take visitors to the 86th floor, and the next set of elevators take you to the 102nd-floor observatory. Both floors reveal beautiful sites of the city. Don’t miss out. Period.

Also, be sure to go shopping in Herald’s Square, which holds the largest Macy’s store in the world. Other shops include H&M, Bebe, Forever 21, Banana Republic, Victoria’s Secret, and much more.

8. Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center includes a myriad of offices, cafes, and rooftop gardens. Since GE owns many of the buildings in the area, many offices are home to NBC Studios. Many shows are produced here, including Saturday Night Live, the Today Show, and the Colbert Report. In addition, you can visit the observation deck on top of the Rockefeller Center, called “Top of the Rock.”

While you’re in the area, walk around Fifth Avenue to see some classy stores as well as Radio City Music Hall. The Museum of Modern Art is also in the area.

9. Central Park
This park stretches from 59 St to 110 St and Central Park West to Fifth Avenue. Built in 1876, the park provides a green haven within the concrete jungle. Some landmarks include the Belvedere Castle, Strawberry Fields, the Central Park Zoo, the Bethesda Terrance and Fountain, and the Tavern on the Green.

10. Food and Drink
One cannot visit New York without experiencing the amazing food and drinks the city houses. Amazing, cheap food can be found in many of the ethnic boroughs: Chinatown, Little Italy, Flushing, and Jackson Heights. If you’re looking for a high-class experience, be sure to visit Four Seasons, Park Avenue Autumn, The Modern, Gotham Bar and Grill, and Aquavit.

For drinks, be sure to check out places with cheap happy hour specials or experience the divine experience at hotel bars. While these hotel bars are more expensive, they are worth it. Try The Bar at the Four Seasons Hotel and The View Restaurant and Lounge at the Marriot Marquis.